find ecstacy in life - the mere sense of living is joy enough | emily dickinson

what's for dinner | wednesday

2010-07-14T15:12:00.000-06:00

so i know this not posting daily thing is lame...
again i am STILL in texas.
it really has been a LOOONG trip.
but fun & nice to be with family.

here is my first what's for dinner | wednesday.
before you think its lame, try it out.
it will NOT dissapoint & its not all that bad for you either.

before we left for texas my kids were disappointed,
their mom was making dinners that were...
well not quite up to the usual standards.
i explained there was no point in letting food sit & rot while we were away.
so i got creative. which i love to do anytime, so i am glad i did this.
it will become a favorite for me.
only maybe just egg whites & add mushrooms too.
mmmm, mushrooms. i love them!

so go here for the recipe & try this out.
its a great meal in a weeknight crunch & it really leaves you feeling satisfied.

got a whats for dinner idea to share???
PLEASE, pretty please, with cherries on top...email me.
sweetthreephotography@gmail.com

much love & happy eating ♥

blog stalk | sunday

2010-07-11T13:54:00.000-06:00

every once in a while, i find a site that makes my soul sing.
my heart is full & pitter patters like i am in love again.
funny how that happens.
is it even possible or do i sound like a freakin' looney toon?
you can tell me, i admit to being crazy now & then.
it keeps me sane....[if that's possible] ha ha ha.

sooo...a long while back i read this blog.

then i saw this same couple

[sherry & john] to be exact,
in a magazine.
& then i told my friend melisa over at project nursery about them.
they have a beautiful nursery for their new little miss "c" [clara]

i have had this idea with the onesies for a loooonnng while now.
so i was thrilled to see it here.
i also have a SOOOO fab idea for a birth announcement too.
does ANYONE out there want me to photograph their newborn
[or slightly newborn] & try it out?
its seriously incredible. & it would be free to you...

anyway back to YHL.
this couple is living my dream...
blogging full time, raising a child & rehabbing a house into something fabulous.
their wedding was incredible & much like my own.
& i secretly want their sunroom. its so light & fresh.
& look at their kitchen. beautiful. fabulous. bright.

anyway there are a million, maybe a trillion...
things i could say about this site.
it's a favorite [if you can't tell!]
so do me a favor, check it out.
stalk them like i do. they don't mind. promise.
in fact, they love it. ♥

there is my blog stalk | sunday recommend.
it's just too fabulous to not share.
i have been selfish long enough.

also any of you real moms out there. i want to keep building this "community"
email me please. i have a fun thing to share with you.
sweetthreephotography@gmail.com
can't wait to hear from you!

XOXO ♥

saturday | sweets

2010-07-10T19:01:00.000-06:00

as some of you know i am still in texas.
til the 19th! wow! its been a long trip.
kinda strange too.
still long. i will have been gone almost an entire MONTH!
i miss home. i miss utah. i miss my stuff. [i know its wrong..]
i miss my kitchen. my menu board. my doggies & sweet mr. cat - walter.
my family. my front loading dryer. [my clothes take WAY too long to dry here.]
& i have big plans to paint & redecorate my kitchen & living room when i get home.
it's time for change. so far all my new changes have been wonderful.
so i think i will carry on with some more...

so today i am sharing with you one of my favorite treats. i love it.
its simple. just sweet enough & not too bad for you either.

many of you don't know i am allergic to raspberries, all melons, cucumbers, kiwi, etc.
there are so many wonderful things i don't get to enjoy in life.
it's sad but i manage.
i find other things i love & CAN eat & i enjoy them. ALOT!
blackberries are one of those things!
so YUMMY. so subtle & juicy.
i eat them in the morning with vanilla yogurt & a VERY high fiber kashi cereal.
pure bliss. so good.
& so good for me.[bonus!]

here is my blackberry splurge!

a double churn low fat vanilla ice cream, blackberries & mini vanilla wafers.
thats it. end of story.
insert spoon, take your first bite. SMILE.
& say mmmm at least once.
i mean it. it's a requirement!

so enjoy your saturday sweet.
i hope you love it as much as i do.

it's truly an indulgence.

when i get home i plan to make a vanilla | blackberry pudding pop.
i will keep you posted on my progress!

XOXO♥

photo challenge | phriday

2010-07-09T16:49:00.003-06:00

welcome to the very first post for photo challenge | phriday.

questions yet? here goes...

every week I will exchange one sooc picture with one photographer

& the other photographer will do the same with me.

we will each edit our own photo & each others photo.

we will then post them here on fridays...for your viewing pleasure.

there are many reasons I chose to do this challenge.

i guess i will start with the negative part first..

it seems that anymore the photography market is becoming very saturated.

before you hate me, hear me out.

as a hard working, constantly learning, somewhat newbie to this industry..

i feel we all have to start somewhere. but that somewhere, starts with integrity & pride.

& well, i have recently experienced,

some people do not seem to value this as much as others.

on the positive side, i feel there is such a segregation between photographers.

my negative rant probably doesn't seem to help to bridge this divide.

but there are some photographers out there that dont want to support each other.

they want to be "idolized" & cant spare a minute of their time for a fellow photographer..

quite frankly its shameful.

there is SO much of that going on in the internet world.

& it makes my heart hurt. we should want to support each other.

& not be afraid to ask for help. & not be too proud to give it.

there is some INCREDIBLE talent out there. talent to be shared.

talent to be inspired by. talent to be admired. to be loved.

integrity to be valued & breathed in. so refreshing.

i hope to see a community of photographers, working together.

sharing. loving. helping. inspiring. motivating.

you get the idea. it's not always ideal but its my hope.

so i feel that i shouldn't explain any further.

just know that i support everyone's dream.

so don't get the wrong idea from the beginning of the post.

i want everyone to follow their passion.

life is too short to live with regret.

really. please appreciate my honesty.

it comes from a well meaning place.

i hope this becomes a fun weekly feature that many will enjoy.

so after ALOT of yapping. here it is.

smile & enjoy.

amy mcfarland of {amy cloud} photography

is the photographer participating this week.

she is super talented & does amazing work.

she recently did my thirty | on thursday feature as well..

expect to see more of her. she is so fun to work with & has great ideas.

this first photo is the sooc [straight out of camera] image that amy took.

the image below is amy's image, edited by amy, herself.

the next image is my [sweet | three photography] sooc image.

this is amy's edit of the sweet | three image

the next 2 images are my edits of each of the sooc images.

so there it is my friends.

photo challenge | phriday.

did you like it?

do you or someone you know want to participate?

please do! email me for details!

i hope many do! i may not even participate some weeks...

so we can really form that "community" i was talking about!

have a great weekend!

xoxo♥

thirty | on thursday

2010-07-08T23:02:00.000-06:00

so i would like to say that life has been good today.
but it hasn't.
i got very sick.
that's the reason this post is up so late today.
& why the past few days you haven't seen a thing.
my apologies for that. all should return to normal soon.

so today's post rocks!
i am introducing you to a girl that is amazing.
she is like this little ball of energy in my mind.
& everytime i see her, she is so kind & funny.
oddly enough, we met through my little sister.
strange how life happens.
meet tomi.

she recently started a fun blog, the sprinkled scoop.
the blog is going to be great, i know it.
tomi has great fun with everything & finds the most quirky & amazing things.
so i thought it would be fitting to feature her, everyone needs a friend like this.
even if you can't meet her in person!

so here is today's thirty | on thursday post.
read it, enjoy. laugh. have some fun.
& please, please, please check out her blog...i am sure she will be posting soon.

tomi, i have to tell you...that i loved the part about juno.
i ♥ juno too. & i too, thought she was so selfless & fun.
i bought a hamburger phone after i watched that movie.
no joke. savannah used to say when answering "hello, its a cheeseburger calling you."
hilarious!

1 | where are you from? wellington, utah

2 |where is home now? Helper, Utah

3 | what's a favorite indulgence? Food wise? Bacon. Otherwise? Books. Lots and lots of books.

4 | what is your favorite thing to cook & why?
Rice Pilaf. It's super easy, and you can never make just a little. So you can eat it for days and days.

5 | any good reads to suggest to us...
Divine Misfortune by A. Lee Martinez and Julie and Julia by Julie Powell

6 | favorite movie & why?
Juno, it's eccentricities and lingo make it so much fun to watch, and it is a really touching story about a mistake turning into a blessing, what Juno does is a really selfless act.

7 | name one person you would want to meet & why?
Paula Deen, I love everything she makes and she just seems like a warm southern maw maw (grandma, LOL!)

8 | what motivates & inspires you?
I get motivated by setting goals, and giving myself rewards. Like, if I clean the kitchen, I reward myself with a nap. :) I get inspired by books and music mostly. It's funny the way I can hear a song and create a recipe to go around it. Also, My little boy, Ryley. He inspires me to put fun into everything I do. Life is better when it's silly.

9 | whats in your purse | bag? oh wow..let's see: Ipod touch, zombie brain flavored mints, 3 lipglosses, momspit hand sanitizer, tissues, wal-mart receipts, my wallet, some plastic bangles, a matchbox car, and a couple packages of fruit snacks.
(it's a rather large purse)

10 | what is your biggest fear? eek. It's a tie between giant squid and prehistoric sharks.
The thought of both terrify me.

11 | if you could have any talent [besides, the many obvious ones.] what would it be?
I'd like to learn how to blow glass, I think that is more than a little amazing what they do with a tiny ball of glass.

12 | name 5 words someone would use to describe you? Sweet, Quirky, Stubborn, Showoff, Sassy

13 | what's your favorite food? Sweet: Cupcakes, hands down. Otherwise: Jacketed baked potatoes.
[p.s. tomi, what are jacketed baked potatoes?]

14 | what is one thing [no people or pets] that you can not live without? My ipod touch.

15 | something that is overrated? underrated? overrated would have to be dieting. For health reasons, that's understandable. Everyone needs to be healthy. But dieting to just make yourself look that much better is not good. That's how the world has developed it's body issues. I always say "I'd rather be fluffy and happy than skinny and miserable" Underrated would have to be plain ol' mac n' cheese. Just cheese, noodles, and a pinch of salt. Haha, of course I bring it back to food.

16 | name one person [famous or not] you most relate to or that best represents you & why? dont laugh..Cheer bear from the care bears. I relate to always wanting people to be happy and cheerful. The best way to do that is to be happy and cheerful yourself.

17 | tell us one thing that no one would guess or we would be shocked to know?
I am a HUGE taylor swift fan. lol. [IM SHOCKED!!!!]

18 | name a blog [or a couple blogs] you stalk regularly?
Cakespy(this the most!)
♥ me some cakespy too!
Bakerella,
[i happen to ♥ bakerella alot too! she is amazing!]
Your blog.
[thank you! i am absolutely TOUCHED!]

19 | tell us your favorite thing about your significant other? [this will be fun.] :) He is impossible to stay mad at. Whenever i'm mad, he cracks a joke, and the fight is over. I love it.

20 |tell us something you aren't good at? [or just wish you were.] Sewing. I fail at sewing, but I really want to learn how.

21 | what is your favorite color? what do you believe it says about you? pink. I think it says "wow, you really do have a totally girly side!"

22 | what is something that you have plans to try before the end of this year? fondant. I've dappled, but I plan to become a master. haha.

23 | your favorite holiday? Halloween. So spooky. I go all out every year.

24 | describe yourself in one word. Awesome :)

25 | what's your dream car? dream home destination? Dream car --Black nissan cube. Dream home destination--Seattle.

26 | where is your place for peace? [your most peaceful place to be.] [or your way of achieving it] My couch late at night, reading my book.

27 | what's your secret to balancing life? a career, marriage, etc.
taking things one step at a time, always.

28 | what's an item on your wish list? [for you or for someone else] Pink kitchenaid mixer! with attachments!

29 | what do you | or would you... do....to make the world a better place? Sweeten it up a bit. I love to take goodies to people. A big plate of cookies always puts a smile on everyone's face.

30 | leave us with a piece of advice | inspiration.....

Never trust a skinny cook! haha, j/k. Actually, be true to yourself. Follow your rainbow, it will always lead you somewhere nice.

awesome advice tomi!!!
& the rainbow advice....AMAZING!!!
i will have to share that more!
keep following your rainbow, i know i will!

a little late.....

2010-07-05T11:41:00.000-06:00

blame it on vacation again, its too hard to try & be fifty places at once.
i am sure you know how that is at times.
i want to make sure my kids have the funnest time ever...
we got sunburned yesterday, yes all of us. & we all had on sunscreen.
i bought a better brand last night. can't have that happening again.

anyway, i wanted to share with you a blog stalk | sunday post.
i had hoped to post this yesterday which was actually sunday....
but the 4th of july was taking place & well, that's important!
p.s. i hope you all had a safe & fun holiday!

so today i want to share with you.....a fun foodie blog.
THE OLIVE TREE
i recently participated in a giveaway there & i read it weekly for recipe fun & ideas.
so you really should check it out, its alot of fun.
& the food looks & sounds OH SO YUMMY!!!
Melissa really is talented with her kitchen skills!

so please check it out.
its stalk | worthy for sure. so stalk away.

happy birthday | to you.

2010-07-05T11:26:00.000-06:00

today is my sweet ella's birthday.
she turns 3.
thats a big number for such a tiny girl.
ella is my sunshine on a rainy day, full of smiles, hugs & kisses whenever anyone needs them.

i cant believe we have already reached the number 3!
time flies when life is so good.
a few things about ella in her 3rd year of life....or right before it :)

*she loves MILK, i mean LOVES IT! has to have it all the time.
*she loves dresses, jewelry & anything girlie. a total girlie girl.
*she loves to be "my big helper" as she calls it. & she truly is such a great help!!!
*she eats only the icing off of cake & cupcakes usually. it's her favorite part.
*she requests noodles for breakfast on a regular basis. she loves them.
*she also loves broccoli & eats it like there is no tomorrow, boy am i lucky!
*her blanky is attached to her like a 3rd arm, she cant function without it.
poor grandma greenwood has made like 5 already....too funny.
*she loves to sing, especially twinkle, twinkle & boom boom pow.
*being tickled is complete happiness for her.
*miss ella has an insane sense of humor & says the funniest things.
after being told she couldn't go on the airplane without being potty trained..
without hesitation, she told her dad "send me a message then!" hilarious!
*you almost ALWAYS share with anyone, you are so kind hearted that way.

i can't really think of everything to share about her because there are SOOO many good things.
ella you are an amazing little ball of sunshine, full of love & laughter & my days with you are sweet.
of course you aren't always well behaved or nice but that comes with the age...
& you are always quick to say sorry and offer a hug.

we love you miss ella bonana.
you deserve the best birthday a 3 year old could ask for.

XOXO - ♥

mommy. daddy. savannah & olivia.

happy| day of independence

2010-07-04T01:30:00.000-06:00

happy 4th of july!!!

i feel we have so very much to be thankful for.

life is certainly so sweet & there is SO very much to CELEBRATE!

this has been a holiday unlike others....but joyously so...

we are in texas visiting our family & this year the change comes from..

meeting a new & amazing family member, a brother i never knew i had all my life.

he flew home tonight - back to phoenix.

but our short visit was amazing.

its amazing to know you have another like you in some ways out there somewhere...

a relationship that we get to have now & build upon. amazing!

i hope to make it to phoenix to see you, cody!

[i will share photos later!]

[photos taken by tickled pink studios - orange county based photographer - kim waldron]

much love from my sweets to yours....may your day be filled with fun, laughter, memories...

& of course, SAFETY! :)

XOXO - ♥

saturday | sweets

2010-07-02T23:32:00.000-06:00

so a while back, i made these.. yummy rainbow cupcakes.
my kids LOVED them & so did i.
they were for my sister in law's kindergarten class.
every year she throws them a celebration at the end of the year.

& i love making yummy treats for them to enjoy!

for the saturday | sweets post, i am sharing the recipe with you!
you can find the recipe for the cupcake batter here.
to get them to be vibrant colors of the rainbow..
divide the batter out evenly into bowls, then add your favorite food coloring or dye.
[if using normal food coloring it needs to be the neon kind, in large amounts too.]
i used the wilton brand gel coloring & it was SO easy!
making sure to add more than normal for the vibrant, rich colors desired...
to achieve the rainbow look, add a little dollop of batter into each cupcake liner until 3/4 full.
you can do the same in each liner, mix it up, your choice.
cake is so good, no matter the color...
but really how fun is eating a rainbow???

maybe, just maybe, i get a little too excited about it.
but you know...cake is a favorite of mine.
that's why i can't eat it often....
my behind doesn't appreciate it.
ha ha ha.

to make buttercream to top them with, find the recipe here.
only for this batch i also added marshmallow fluff to it.
just a teensy bit...about 1/4 cup & you're good.
it gives it the perfect touch of sweet & fluffy.
once you try it, you may not go back.

anyway, hope you enjoy. have a happy 4th of july weekend!
you could certainly make the batter for these red, white & blue....
& maybe top with a white or red buttercream & a sparkler!
how FUN would that be??
if i weren't on vacation , you can bet that i would be making them!

have a sweet | saturday!

let's celebrate our freedom!

XOXO - ♥

2010-07-02T12:59:00.000-06:00

it's friday. YAY!
i am a day late on the thirty | on thursday post.
i actually tried to post last night but the photos were being SOOOO difficult.
crazy blogger, sometimes it happens. :)

so i want to introduce you to our 1st thirty | on thursday feature.
meet amy mcfarland of {amy cloud} photography.

amy recently moved to carbon county, utah from omaha, nebraska.
she & i connected on facebook at the beginning of the year.
since then we have shot a wedding, shared ideas & frustrations & gotten to know one another more.
we still have a TON of catching up to do but for some reason, neither of us can be in the same county at the same time. we need to work on that, right?
that girl's night will happen, before the end of the year.....
savannah likes to call amy by the name of katie, which she happens to have a sister by the name of......

amy loves life, photography, her pups & her honey tony.
well i am sure there is more but i know these main things for sure.
so enjoy learning more about amy.
i tried to keep the industry related questions kind of specific then give you some fun just because questions..
if you can think of ways i should improve this or anyone to feature, please let me know :)
i want to hear. i want this to be a site everyone wants to read!

happy friday - happy 4th - XOXO ♥

& a big thanks to amy for sharing with us! it was seriously FUN!!!

1 | where are you from? I grew up in a small community in Northwest Iowa called Anthon

2 | where is home now? East Carbon, UT

3 | what's a favorite indulgence? Chocolate! I stock up on Cadbury Easter eggs after the holiday so I can have them all year. This year I only bought 6--I know, what was I thinking? I have one left. It stares me in the face every day, nestled between a can of green beans and a can of stewed tomatoes on the top shelf of my pantry! I just can't bring myself to end the deliciousness.

4 | as a photographer are you formally educated or self taught?

I took one class in college that taught me the basics. Otherwise all self taught. I read and research a lot!

5 | if you could be anywhere with your camera [of course!] where would it be? [& why?]

I can't really say a place. I'd say in a moment. I am a hopeless romantic so any moment of love, like an engaged couple.

6 | describe to us your style of photography? My style is vibrant and full of bright colors. I catch moments but give you portraits that you won't want to replace every year, but add to.

7 | name one photographer you would want to meet & take a photo of. [& why?]

Oh man this is a tough one. I would have had the perfect answer a couple of months ago by saying Brooke Kinsey of Blush Photography in SLC. I took a workshop from her and she is super fabulous!! Her photos have so much feeling and her post processing is beautiful! If I'd have to pick one I haven't met yet, then I'd say Jasmine Star. Her writing is amazing and her humor and personality are both very contagious! She also really seems to care about other photographers and as busy as she is-she has answered some of my own personal questions on her fan page.

8 | what motivates & inspires you?

Love. In it's most simplistic form. Seeing love drives me to freeze those moments in time and love from those around me makes me want to work harder.

9 | whats in your purse | bag? My purse looks like a tiny tornado hit it! Wallet, phone, lip gloss, loose change, about a million receipts floating around, earrings, a ring, junior mints, an empty plastic baggy, my sisters birthday present, sunglasses, a pen, haaa- a pair of those plastic Bubba teeth (I was at a get together this last weekend that required them), a planner, and a napkin.

10 | had you not been a photographer what career path woluld you have chosen? Something artistic. Creativity runs in my veins. I've really had the urge lately to learn to how to fix up and rescue old furniture.

11 | if you could have any talent [besides, the obvious.] what would it be? To be a famous singer, probably on Broadway. I was in choir and plays from kindergarten through my first year of college. I even played Laurie in Oklahoma my senior year of high school.

12 | name 5 words someone would use to describe you? bubbly, loud, soft-hearted, passionate, artistic

13 | what's your favorite food? Anything mexican! The more authentic the better!

14 | what is one thing [no people or pets] that you can not live without? Music! I am a fan of all kinds.

15 | something that is overrated? underrated? Overrated--living in a big city. I lived in Omaha for about four years (not even that big) and don't get me wrong, I loved it. But there is nothing like living in a small town. It took me moving back to one to realize that. I'm going to say small towns would be underrated!

16 | name one person [famous or not] you most relate to or that best represents you & why? Another tough one. I would say my mom. I am like her in so many ways. She is so much fun and I can talk to her about anything. She is the whole reason I first picked up a camera.

17 | tell us one thing that no one would guess or we would be shocked to know?

I had a lazy eye as a kid and had to wear a patch! I hated it but that was back when my mom was crazy for Days of Our Lives and she made me feel better by telling me I could be just like her favorite character Bo.

18 | name a blog [or a couple blogs] you stalk regularly?

Kacey Luvi - She took our engagement pictures.

I've been following her for over 3 years. Such an inspiration.

Sloan Images International-Christina doesn't only inspire me but she cares about me and my well being. She has helped me grow in so many ways. I am forever in debt to her! Check her out. She was voted one of the top most influential photogs of the decade!

And The Pioneer Woman- She is a lady of many talents and is super funny. How can you not love her!

19 | share with us an image or two of your favorite or most recent work...something to make us swoon :)

20 | what is your favorite kind of photo shoot & why? I think I hinted at this earlier. Engagements. I love "love stories". Something about shooting couples makes my heart go "pitter-patter". I could shoot couples all day long and never get tired of it. They always seem to have the most excited and heartfelt responses when they get the finished product. They make me feel so good about what I'm doing.

21 | what is your favorite color? what do you believe it says about you? If you've seen my work you will probably laugh when you read this. Black! And not because I wear a lot of it. But because its the color that can never be covered up. No matter what color you use to color over top of it, the black will always stay true and hold strong. I feel that way about me. I've had some ups and downs (who hasn't) and have always managed to stay true to myself.

22 | what is something that you have plans to try before the end of this year? I have a super fun stylized shoot coming up that I've been dying to do! Think vintage! Can I squeeze in one more? A birth story. I want to shoot a baby being born from the moment the mom gets to the hospital to the time the baby is laying in his/her parents arms.

23 | your favorite holiday? Halloween! I LOVE dressing up! Most of the time I make my own costumes

24 | describe yourself in one word. Real

25 | what's your dream car? dream home destination?

Car--my husband laughs at me about this. Im not about flashy and expensive cars. I just want a Nissan Altima! Home--a plantation style home somewhere in the mountains. Im not sure if that would even be possible. Destination--Ireland. It's in the works. My husband and I (he lots more) both have some Irish in us. Nothing fancy--visit some castles, hike the hills, visit a few pubs.

26 | when you aren't shooting, where can we find you? Outside. I love the outdoors.

This is my favorite part of Utah. Campfires, boating, 4wheelers. Nature is amazing and I love being able to take it all in!

27 | what's your secret to balancing life? a career, marriage, etc. Stop working when the husband gets home! Ha! Honestly this is hard for me. I am really passionate about what I do and I crave going out on shoots no matter how busy I am. My friends and family are probably so tired of hearing me talk about photography especially since they don't know the difference from an F-Stop to ISO. I try to stop working though after 6p.m. and take it easy on the weekends that I don't have shoots. I really need to improve here! I'll take any hints or advice others may have!

28 | what's an item on your wish list? [non photographic...] A Nissan Altima ;)

29 | what do you | or would you... do....to make the world a better place? I'd love to somehow get involved with helping military families with kids that have a mom or dad overseas. I think it would be so hard being a "single parent" with the fear of knowing that the one you love could get hurt or even die while fighting for our country. I really don't know how I could help out in this area but again, advice or hints would be appreciated! ;)

30 | leave us with a piece of advice | inspiration.....

always stay true to yourself and your style. Others may not like or agree with what you are doing, but as an artist you have to express yourself and do what makes you happy. Those who believe in you and your art will be the best clients and friends you will ever have.

thirty | on thursday

2010-07-01T14:17:00.000-06:00

so i feel badly that i didn't post yesterday.
i had a good one too.
so after we are home from vacation you will get to see normal posts again.
every single day.

so yesterday would have been...
what's for dinner | wednesday
yum, is all i can say.
i can't wait to share yummy recipes with you.
last night, we had a family barbeque & i made panzanella....
but not your typical panzanella.
it was delish & different & i cant wait to get home & make it again.
& i can't wait to share the recipe with you either.

so today's post would have been 30 [thirty] on thursday.
what's that you ask?
30 questions answered by some fabulous people.
maybe they will be photographers, maybe they will be foodies
or an inspiring person...but either way, you are sure to ENJOY.

so stay tuned. i can't wait to share with you.
if you think there is someone you want to see or hear from, clue me in.
i am always open to suggestions.

so until i return, happy thursday. hope its a good one.

& you may see the 30 on thursday posted tonight.

a little late?! yes! but forgive me, i am on vacation.

i have to enjoy, life is too short to not do that :)

vacation doesn't happen everyday.

XOXO ♥

tastetest | tuesday

2010-06-29T09:04:00.000-06:00

so from now on every tuesday i am going to feature a delicious tastetest of a new recipe.
it may be a baked good...
it may be a main course...
it may be a beverage....
it may be a salad...

either way......you get the point, i am sure.

this week since we are on vacation, i kept it simple.
[i am sure you can understand.]

have you ever heard of bakerella?
anyone answering no to this question is crazy.
miss bakerella is famous for her itty bitty cake pops.
they are amazingly detailed & so fun.
pretty much everyone i know has either tried their hand at the cake pops...
or dreams about it.

i know i will one day.
i have already been making cake balls for a loooong while now.
i think i can settle on that for now.

for this week's taste test, we made these brownies or cookies....
you know i am not really sure what they are but they were GOOD!
really, REALLY, good!

honestly, it was such a great mix between a chocolate chip cookie [my ultimate weakness!]
& a brownie. such a good combination!

my girls loved them by the way! [as seen in the photos above!]
so I hope you try your hand at these!
don't let them cook too long! mine were nice & chewy.
& OH SO GOOD!

audra | carbon senior 11'

2010-06-28T06:07:00.000-06:00

i want to take a minute to show you a quick group of pictures.
this is audra!
audra is a bubbly, fun [almost] senior, graduating in 2011.

audra is so beautiful so it made it SOOOO easy to get great photos of her!
I had such a fun time Audra! SO FUN!

birthdays are fabulous.

2010-06-28T01:02:00.000-06:00

we love, LOVE, ♥ birthdays in our house.
whether it's one of ours, a family member's or a friends.
birthdays are SO worth celebrating, life is so sweet.

so i wanted to say happy birthday to a dear friend.
a very special friend, who i have known a long time.
& i want to wish her a very special day.

so happy birthday britt.
we love you & hope your day is filled with love & laughter.

don't feel left out patty! we love you too. i was just in a hurry to grab a picture.

xoxo

my house | monday

2010-06-28T00:49:00.000-06:00

me again.
with another daily post.
get excited, there are MORE!
one for everyday of the week.

monday is now - my house | monday
this is a day to feature fun projects, ideas, etc.
i want to feature my readers houses & projects too.
so if you are interested, get in touch with me! SOON!!!

this week i want to share with you a memo board | dry erase board | magnet board | etc.
whatever it is, it's just a bucket of fun.
our family loves it & i ♥, love, LOVE nothing more than breathing new life into something.
it's a fabulous feeling.

so lets start with where this memo board started.
little miss olivia [my 3rd baby, now 18 months] started with a fun nursery.
you can find that nursery here. we have since moved & changed decor, of course.
here is what the changing table used to look like

let me tell you about what happened to this table...
when we moved, as i went to move the cabinet into the house it literally broke into pieces.
yep, that's what i get for spending so little money on it.
ask my husband, he will fill you in on my junk collecting & his HATRED for it.
i just couldn't bring myself to to part with it all when it broke.
so here is what i chose to do with it....

it went from changing table to memo board in 20 minutes flat.

& i am quite sure it was a kitchen cupboard of some sort at one point too!

the kids love to hang up their artwork on it too!

next time you think something is just "junk" think again.

you never know how it really can be used again.

happy monday! maybe next monday we can be at your house!

blog stalk | sunday

2010-06-27T21:06:00.001-06:00

so...i don't know about any of you but i am an avid reader of blogs.
MANY blogs.
SO many that i can't honestly keep count anymore.
the reasons for following each of them is unique.
some are inspiring, some are fun, some i can relate to, some empower me,
some motivate me & some humble me....
as you can see there are MANY, MANY reasons for why i choose to stalk [er, i mean follow] these blogs.

so as another part of my daily posts each week, i bring you...
blog stalk | sunday

strange? maybe.
awesome? YOU BET!
i hope to meet other fabulous new bloggers through doing this as well.
so if you have a blog, lets stalk [er, i mean talk] ha ha.
i want to know about it.

i want to share with all of you the wonderful bloggers i know,
or don't know yet...since i stalk them, i am sure we will "meet" soon. ha ha.

so the very first blog stalk | sunday is dedicated to a fabulously talented party planner.
she is a mama, an entrepreneur, i could go on and on.
she is super talented! & her name is jess. from pen & paperflowers!
it is a wonderful blog full of inspiration & happy thoughts....
& we all love a little extra "sunshine" these days!

& when you take one look at her daughters' recent lemonade & sunshine party...
you will swoon. i mean seriously. its THAT good.

i dont know about you but by the time i got done reading it,
i felt like i was in an issue of country living magazine & i could seriously taste the lemonade cake
oh & the lollipops too.

but my favorite thing ever was this....

[photo from pen & paperflowers | sunshine & lemonade party]

i also want to share with you the inspiration board that she started with prior to executing this party.

its fabulous. [said while squealing with delight.] ♥
& if you aren't using inspiration boards already, GET WITH IT!
you are REALLY missing out my friends...seriously.

so please go STALK jess you won't be sorry you did.
i know i will keep on stalking her for a long time.

& for those of you creeped out by my terminology...sorry.
i would be flattered to be blog stalked.
now everyday peeking through my kitchen window stalking...
NO WAY! & for those of you who say "i don't blog stalk!"
um, can we say liar?! yeah, you..you know who you are! ha ha.
SO i say stalk [only blogs. i dont need the cops called on me.] FREELY & with pride.
if you have a good blog i should hear about email me please!
sweetthreephotography@gmail.com

now, i am off to finish my work & packing for our vacation.
it snuck up on me quickly!

happy sunday!
love | hugs & smiles.
air♥

saturday | sweets

2010-06-26T14:10:00.000-06:00

so again i am introducing to you a new weekly feature.

saturday | sweets.

i get excited & feel the need to exercise just thinking about it.

i have to tell you now...

i love, LoVe, ♥ to bake.

however, i don't always tend to eat alot of what i bake.

so if you are lucky enough to be my best friend, neighbor or family member..

you get to eat some yummy, delicious goodies & not have to work for them either!

what a life....

soooo today i bring you blackberry babycakes [the tiny jars]

& the grown up version [the big jars] crazycakes.

why crazycake? just looking at them says it all.

there are 3 [yes! 3] cupcakes in that jar.

you have to be crazy to eat it all....

but you will do it if you are a true cupcake lover.

the recipe for everything can be found on my kitchen crazies blog.

keep in mind that the blog is still being designed & it isn't quite finished yet.

but the recipes are still there for your viewing pleasure & to be tried of course!

feel free to send me any of your own too.

kitchen crazies is going to be an online cooking community.

not just "my" food blog.

So you HAVE to SHARE yummy ideas & ask questions.

it's a must.

these babycakes & crazycakes went to my friends jamill & april for their birthdays.

they were extra special because yesterday they did a local triathlon.

i am proud of them for their hard work & dedication to being fit & healthy.

i handed out water. [hey! it took dedication] & i was on litter patrol. ha ha ha.

to wrap this up, i want to ask if there is something you want to see on this blog, email me.

sweetthreephotography@gmail.com

& find the recipe for the icing here.

& the recipe for the vanilla cupcakes here.

& lastly the recipe for the easy peasy blackberry sauce here.

it's all so yummy. blackberries are quickly becoming a favorite for me.

[especially since i am VERY allergic to raspberries & melons.] what a load of garbage, huh?!

have a sweet | saturday

love & hugs.

me.

feel good | friday.

2010-06-25T16:31:00.001-06:00

today's post could not be more fitting.
i have been dreaming of ways to bring you [my lovely readers] ♥
something more than just awkward photos & recap's of my shoots...

i had dubbed today feel good | friday in my head.
i just was NOT sure about what to post to start it off...
then...i came across this article in my august issue of [whole living]
[fabulous magazine by the way...one of my favorites.]
it really brings me back to who i am, what i hope to accomplish & ways to do it.
it supports me....mind, body & soul.
not often do you find a magazine or even a friend capable of that.

they shared in the issue - 10 thoughts on whole living.
i feel the need to share those with you.
every one of these things hit home for me
& i hope that you find peace in this list & motivation to change your life.
sometimes even a small change can be good.
[for the record i am not calling anyone's life inadequate.]
i just like to encourage everyone to look outside their box.
breathe a little differently, look through different eyes now & then.

so here they are | 10 thoughts on whole living
1. taste something straight from the tree.

2. give your way out of a bad mood...
with a donation, foot message or compliment.

3. daily chaos will never cease
[story of my life.]

4. see your surroundings with fresh eyes.

the best way to find yourself is to discover where you are.

5. head outside and MOVE. nature invigorates the mind & body.

6. don't wait for inspiration to strike.
IGNITE your own creative fire.

7. take a day OFF. the world [& the office.]
will be fine & still be there when you get back.

8. notice your cravings -
for sugar, caffeine & attention.
ask yourself what you really need & why.

9. kick off your shoes, spread your toes...and ground yourself in the present.

10. rising to a physical challenge can make you feel POWERFUL in every way.

happy feel good | friday!
i am leaving you with another image of my trip to tavaputs ranch this week!
it makes me feel happy!

the beauty of summer.

2010-06-24T14:59:00.001-06:00

i wanted to share a photo i entered into a photo contest.

the theme of the contest is wildflowers.

so tuesday while we were up at tavaputs ranch i took this photo.

more to come on tavaputs later....it was the most beautiful, serene place i have been in quite sometime.

jennie, as i said before, you are a LUCKY girl spending your time there.

check out cute mr. bumble bee doing his thing...

nature is just so beautiful.

oh & before i go, one more reminder to head over to the olive tree & enter the giveaway.

my custom recipe cards are being offered as part of a basket that you won't wanna miss.

happy thursday.

step by step....

2010-06-24T14:03:00.000-06:00

these guys just keep on giving me a laugh
[or many.]

like many young girls back in the day, i was in love.
the new kids on the block had it goin' on....
i had a sleeping bag with them on it & much more.

but after seeing photos like this,
i realize there is a reason some things should stay in the past.

[photo courtesy of awkwardfamilyphotos.com]

one look at their hair says it all for me...
& that poor girl has to live with that memory forever.
i bet that to this day she still doesn't eat whatever that is he is shoving in her mouth.
i am barely eating carrots again...
& my traumatic event took place at the age of 5,
so...i can only imagine :)

either way, enjoy a laugh & i know some of you are still in love with these boys
but i can safely say that i am not & this photo seals the deal for a lifetime.
amazing how damaging & permanent a photo can be?

love & hugs.
me.

everyone loves a giveaway.

2010-06-23T15:04:00.002-06:00

& it's our very first!
so tell me...how many of you ever win anything???
well i will tell you that i never seem to.
no matter how hopeful i am about it.

in fact my most recent letdown involved 2 chances of winning.
1. i was NOT chosen to go to meet the pioneer woman at her ranch & have her make me yummy goodness.
[i will tell you now, i was CRUSHED.]
seriously, crushed.

2. involved a chance to shoot with the talented Kristen Weaver in Miami.
[again, crushed.]
but also loved the fact that so many friends & family supported me.
& well, sometimes we all need those moments in life.

sooo....hold on to your horses friends.
do i have a giveaway for you.
my friend melissa at the olive tree & i have been coordinating this for a while now.
it's scrumptious just like all the recipes at the olive tree.
i think you would all like Melissa's fun & open personality.
she shares recipes in fun ways & is very honest about how they turn out.
& well, I LIKE THAT ALOT!

she makes fabulous food.
so fresh, fun & always making me HUNGRY!!!!
so how does this tie in to my giveaway letdowns??

well, the way i see it, you are all winners for being able to enjoy the good recipes at the olive tree
& secondly, the giveway itself rocks & someone is going to win!

so head on over to the olive tree, try some new recipes, become a fan on facebook & tell your friends.
i promise its worth your time.

so i leave you with a little glimpse of part of the big prize.
& trust me there is much more.
just in time for the 4th of july & all these wonderful summer celebrations!

[recipe cards from my etsy shop]

good luck to you all for entering!

today is tuesday.

2010-06-22T08:53:00.000-06:00

today is also my anniversary.
8 years to be exact.
so instead of an awkward photo, i will leave you with a little blast from my past...

& if you must demand it, i could share an awkward moment or two.
my husband snores when he sleeps...
i talk in my sleep. [apparently, i am quite entertaining.]

he likes rock music..
i like almost every kind of music, except his favorite, marilyn manson....[imagine that.]
but i really dig classical. sets my soul at ease.

these are just a few of our many differences.
but we do like to do alot of other things together.
& we made 3 beautiful babies :)

we like to golf, cook, watch funny things, the list goes on.
so here is to year 8....
may any of you out there celebrating as well, have a day filled with love & laughter.

may your monday be better than this one.

2010-06-21T01:03:00.001-06:00

in so many ways...

just when you thought your mondays were stressful....

i cant even begin to point out how awkward so many things are in this photo.

the photo on the wall only shows two kids, yet somehow they have 4 here...

someone's not a favorite :)

pretty sure the little guy is pooping or just really clueless.

[i still vote that he is pooping, trust me, as a mom i have seen that face.]

the mom's gonna do the running man any second if those kids don't hurry up.

& we all know that won't end well.

the dad, hmm, i won't elaborate on that...

he is just glad his son is as tall as his wife & possibly even the same age too.

after all with the same haircuts it's hard to distinguish the two.

so take a break today, take a deep breath & remember life could always be more awkward.

happy monday all! & please send me some of your awkward photos!

[photo courtesy of awkwardfamilyphotos.com]

for all you dads out there.

2010-06-18T13:04:00.000-06:00

well, as many know it's father's day weekend.
& well i love my pets like they are my children.
however, this may be taking it to the extreme.
see for yourself.

[photo courtesy of awkwardfamilyphotos.com]

maybe its her side ponytail,
or the fact that she had to of had a killer workout before hand to have those rosy red cheeks...

maybe its the fact that he looks excited to be wearing antlers...
i really can't say.

either way it gave me a much needed smile today.

so enjoy & happy friday!

going for the gold.

2010-06-17T10:11:00.000-06:00

how could i resist? really, come on!

in honor of yesterday's post,

there was NO way I could leave this guy out of today's post.

it was just all too funny & fitting.

[photo courtesy of awkwardfamilyphotos.com]

you know, i can't decide whats more funny...

the fact that he is WAY too old to be that excited for this...

or the fact that he looks like he can barely stand up on those skates.

[or maybe, its the crazy shiny gold outfit.]

really, i just can not decide.

either way, step aside Chazz: [a character in the blades of glory.]

"there's a new sheriff in town." homeschool.

ha ha ha.

a whole new breed of laughter. [06.16.2010]

2010-06-16T13:53:00.000-06:00

[photo courtesy of awkwardfamilypetphotos.com]

well, how this guy is still single is just a big mystery to me.
i mean who doesn't love a guy who just screams that he is...
a cat loving, blades of glory channeling, i can look deep into your eyes
hunk of burning love...
man, what a catch! you could dance your first dance to "lady humps" at your wedding.
i am sure it would rock!
[if you haven't seen blades of glory, you will not get that part.]

either way, all you single ladies out there better get ready.
i am sure this photo is dated but you never know,
he may have a brother.
a brother that also has fluffy hair & beautifully arched eye brows.
but maybe his brother will have 2 cats...or a dog. [gasp!]

on a serious note: as a photographer i could never consent to a photo like this.
no way, no how, not happening.
so NEVER ask me.
i will hang up on you.

laugh it up - 06.15.2010

2010-06-15T11:55:00.000-06:00

[photo courtesy of awkardfamilyphotos.com]

if this is what we have to look forward to...

i think i would like to live forever please.
or become a convict..
either one will do.

somehow i think we all know we want to rest in peace when we pass
but this is taking it a little far.
i wonder if the two on the bottom are the outcasts of the family?
they surely don't seem to be nearly as excited as everyone else.
in fact, i think they are plotting a getaway plan....
[maybe if they run fast enough out of there, rob a bank or two on the way...]
surely that would change their fate......
ha ha ha.

so i cant decide whats worse about this picture,
the fact that they all showed up for something so terrible
or the fact that clearly someone had to of come up with the idea...
that's a scary thought.

come back tomorrow for another fun photo!
& please email me any that you may have!

jones | family.

2010-06-14T18:38:00.000-06:00

so i am VERY behind in blogging about recent & even not so recent photo sessions.
i try to keep up while editing but this week has been incredibly busy.
[& its only monday. that's not a good sign.]
also there was a little snafu with their disc after i finished
& well i believe in making things right - ASAP!
which is just what i did & misty was SOOOOO good to me about it.
[thanks again.]

take a look at what a hot couple these two are!

seriously.
i can't even tell you how great they both were.
soooo down to do anything, pose anywhere....
you could just see the love between them just by the way they looked at one another.
those looks weren't posed. [for real!]

then you add in this little guy.

meet mister "g"
soooo handsome & cooperative.
my favorite face is the one where he is holding his gun & sitting by his dad, looking fierce.
it rocks! no doubt about it.
these things can't be coached either.
they have to happen on their own.
like these pictures.

i had a really good time with you guys!
i am so glad that i got to capture some fun photos of your family & little man!
i also can't wait to see you guys again!
[& i am hoping not for photos but just for fun too!]

i loved your laid back style.
i am sure you three have a lot of fun & good times together.

& ladies did you happen to notice how beautiful & shiny misty's hair is?
pretty sure it makes me want long hair again,
if mine would cooperate!

also i want to give a HUGE, i mean HUGE thanks to cindy!
cindy is so wonderful & took my dog treats [the barkscotti]
to SLC this weekend so they could be given out at the No More Homeless Pets event.
without her help, i would have been driving to SLC with 3 grumpy little girls,in the rain
& then running right back home for a photo shoot.
she saved me from my insanity, in so many ways.
i owe her big. big as the sky.
i love finding kind & caring people in this world.
it shows me that there is hope.
& a reason to care.

thanks again jones' family.
you are great.
& i am proud to know you.

love | hugs & laughs...
air

it's all fun & games...

2010-06-14T17:02:00.000-06:00

until it's captured with a camera.
well, then we all know what happens.
it's pretty permanent for all the world to see if you don't watch your back
or play your cards right.

lately several photographers, news stations & other sites I follow
have been featuring horrendous photos of families.
some recent, some not so much.
all equally horrendous | hilarious | scary...
if you are in any photos like this, I recommend burning all evidence immediately.
ha ha ha.
not judging but it is pretty funny to see the "trends" in our photographic timeline.

so i am going to be sharing with you some awful photos i find.
in fact, i am so brave, that i will be sharing my own.
i fully intend to make the trek into my basement over the weekend to see what i can find.
i promise it will make you laugh.
i once had a sweater vest that was bright yellow, i wore it often...
only to find out later some of my friends [still dear friends] called me big bird.
really, i will stop at this for now.

so i leave you with this funny moment.
i really am not sure what to make of this.

we all find our parents mortifying at some point but i think this takes the cake.
maybe i shouldn't be so sure, it could get worse as i find more photos.

on another note, if you have some fun pictures to share please email me
sweetthreephotography@gmail.com
i would love to share the laughter, & no worries you can remain anonymous.
unless your family | friends read the blog...then well, your jig is up! ha ha.

love & laughter
Air

for your viewing pleasure.

2010-06-13T23:39:00.005-06:00

i want to give you a sneak peek at what I spent my afternoon doing yesterday!
it was rainy out right before the shoot but after the rain...
it was a really fun afternoon.
& trust me that doesn't always happen.
[complete with singing & sunglass wearing, which you are all lucky i am not sharing.]
so while i am not even close to being done editing their session,

here are a couple fun photos for you to see in the time in between...

pretty much every photo shoot i do, i feel like the luckiest girl alive.

i get to capture some amazing memories & see things so raw & true.

thanks so much grant | makenzie | damon & gavin

for sharing your time with me & for making me laugh.

[is she okay? ha ha ha.]

your wolf pack is fun & strong

& you can see how much you love one another.

what a beautiful life.

love | hugs & laughter

me.

they're paws-itively delish!

2010-06-13T16:49:00.000-06:00

so, did any of you head out & support No More Homeless Pets of Utah last night?

if you did, how was it?
i wanted to & was supposed to be there but couldn't make it.
however, my gourmet dog treats were there!

[my peanut butter & cinnamon barkscotti variety was provided & shown above]

i hope every little pooch truly enjoyed them!
& they are safe for peeps too if anyone human happened to get curious.
[believe me, its happened. & more than once.] ha ha.

so if anyone has pictures or a recap of the event, i would love to hear all about it!
& if you aren't already a fan on facebook, please become one.
no more homeless pets of utah is a GREAT organization,
doing great things in our state for our furry friends.
go here also to get the whole scoop on NMHP & the great things they do.

also, i am sure some of you had no idea i even make dog treats.
some even think my dogs are spoiled.
yep, they are. i spoil them rotten.
they are my babies as well.
& i want to be a good dog mama to them.

you can find them in my etsy shop here.
& in honor of the canine casino night, i am giving a discount to anyone wanting to spoil their pup[s]!
should you choose to order use code "casino" to receive 10% off your 1st order.

i promise your pup will thank you for it.
or at least cuddle you a little extra :)

love | thy neighbor & yourself.

2010-06-13T14:14:00.002-06:00

every now & then I have a moment when someone really just plain makes me so mad.
so mad, i could spit nails. [that would be a sight to see.]

i truly consider myself a hippie of some sort.
i love nearly everyone. [even after they may have done me wrong, we all make mistakes.]
i am kind of naive that way but also i think it makes me a stronger person & humble.
i truly do wish for peace on earth & all that other mumbo jumbo.
i am a lover. & when i have to fight i feel extremely guilty & mean.
[except maybe with my husband because he can put up an equally good fight]
& well, it just becomes comical at some point. [& we all need a good laugh.]

for those of you who don't know me personally, i am overweight.
yep, i said it. im a fatty, whale, whatever the hell else you want to say.
recently, i have had several people make reference to this.
some in a sly way [which is rediculously rude.], some in an outright obvious [still rude] way.
it hurt. it still hurts. better yet, it makes me sad for you. [& me.]
it makes me sad for you that you feel okay to look at another human being that way.
i am not judging in this post either, just asking you to love me for me.
if you are going to judge, let it be that i snort when something is really funny when i laugh.
[which my husband adores.]
or that i am a clean freak, perfectionist that can be neurotic at times.
or that i say sorry & thank you too much & dont ask for help nearly enough in life.
[it's a power struggle & i can thank my dad for that.] :)

i'm not perfect [nobody is.] but honestly being overweight is a sore spot for me, to say the least.
so i am here to set the record straight. to clear my name & also maybe to tell you that its okay to be fat.
it's not something i am proud of but i would rather be fat then many other things in life.

i am a young mom, of 3 girls all ages 5 and under.
i eat healthy, very healthy.
i eat a high fiber wrap filled with lots of sprouts, spinach, peppers, & more almost every single day.
i drink a ton of tea & water all day.
contrare to popular belief i do NOT sit around all day eating cupcakes, cookies, etc.
if i do treat myself, its rare & in moderation.
i teach my children to balance their diets, not use crash diets or be anorexic later in life.

i have heard plenty about me being a stay at home mom.
hmm, i would love to see anyone judging me do my job all day. [good luck with that.]
i have a VERY clean house, clean, dressed, fed, happy kids & i work to build my business.
i also make time to exercise, spend time with my family, do kind things for others & more.
who is lazy now? i can guarantee it's not me.
& no, i don't do drugs either. i am just VERY motivated to have a productive life.

i know this is such a rant & i am so sorry.
however, i do know a few people that will [& should] read this.
take it to heart & realize that you should love yourself which allows you to love others.
i can be critical like anyone else about my looks but i have learned to deal with it.
instead of judging on looks, love someone for the person they are, how they treat you & others.
honestly anyone who is mean to my kids is out the door, ASAP.
it's a true show of character.
love someone for being upfront with you, even if it hurts.
empty compliments are contagious these days & rediculously overrated.
give a compliment because you mean it, instead of letting the word vomit flow so freely.

so there you have it. my lesson of the day.
it's not even fair | or appropriate that i am sitting here defending myself.
i am not perfect but this is just one area where i have finally had enough.
if you are concerned about someone's weight, let it be for health reasons, not for your viewing pleasure.
oh & take a look in the mirror & realize that we all change.
for some of us it's more extreme but who cares?

SOOOO i am here to tell you to love yourself.
love your neighbor, love your body, love your kids, love your life.
things could be so much worse off.
i know several people battling illnesses | divorce | financial struggles & more right now.
i feel awful for even posting this in light of their struggles & pain.
say thank you, often. it makes a person feel so good to be thanked.
make a kind gesture toward someone else, dont just think about it...
it goes a LONG way for both you & them.

now you know, i love myself. i haven't always. but since i started, it's changed my life.
it's helped my marriage, it's made me a better mother, friend, etc.
i hate my big butt but love my big heart.
i hate my calves but love that i have the ability to walk & run still.

for those of you in my life who love me for me, thank you.
i am such a rich person for having you in my life.
i am blessed & lucky to know such wonderful people.
& to those of you that have said or done anything mean regarding my weight lately,
i forgive you but the words or actions are not lost on me & they did hurt.
& believe it or not, I can still love you | or at least like you.
i am sad that as a society this has become the norm..
& i hope i can change it, i am starting with my children.

much love to all of you.
tall | short | in between | overweight | thin | just right | sick | healthy | disabled | mean | nice | etc.....

be yourself & be proud.
love yourself & your neighbor.

have you [minted] yet?

2010-06-10T18:49:00.000-06:00

so there is a great stationary website that i truly adore!
its minted.com.

they are an amazing company,
often giving the chance to enter a design contest to design something for them.
i finally decided to enter this time.
[it's a holiday card design contest!]
i put it off, then this morning, while showering, i remembered.
so i put all these crazy thoughts in my head to good use.
they have been circulating for over a week or so....it was time.

so if you have the chance, please go here & rate my design.

even if you hate it, i still appreciate the vote.
& it lets you rate the design from 1 - 5.
5 being the best. & honestly even if i get all 1's, it still means alot!

oh & tell your friends! [maybe they can | will vote too :)
should i advance farther than the submission stage,
i will surely do something kind in return!

voting ends monday june.14.2010!

thanks again for always supporting me
& believing in my crazy ideas!

love | hugs & laughter.

yours truly.

2010 | holiday mini sessions.

2010-06-10T15:15:00.000-06:00

2010 holiday mini sessions are here!

yes, its only june.
but now is your chance to book a holiday mini session for your family.
this allows you to get great photos at an even greater price!

some of you think the holidays are SOOOOO far away.
well, really they aren't.
they are only about 6 months away.
still a long ways off for some of you?
sure but for a photographer even the month before christmas is too late to be doing pictures.

in utah, its freezing cold outside, the lighting isn't always great
& did i mention how busy i am on a normal day, let alone during the holidays?
my time, like everyone's is limited | valuable | precious.

i like to refer to my life as a delicate balance between chaos & beauty.
it seems something always has to go wrong in a day,
yet so many things always go wonderfully right.

3 little girls are always tugging at my sleeves & heartstrings,
2 pups are always wanting a good belly rub,
a not so little anymore kitty named walter likes to enjoy his time in the sun
[while having his ears rubbed.]
there is laundry to do, food to cook, floors to vacuum, photos to edit...

you see its all beautifully chaotic. [& exhausting!]

also on top of my normal life duties,

i will be gone in november for a week!

to photograph a very dear friends wedding.
[did i mention, its in mexico | on a cruise ship?]
[did i also mention, i will be leaving my babies?]
insert sad face here. [& a happy face too.]
i am ok with it though
because sometimes we ALL need a break from each other.
life is crazy in this house.

so obviously with all this chaos, these plans, etc that leaves little time for photos.
so take advantage of this deal,

book a date so you can plan ahead.
[if needed we can narrow time the exact times the month before.]
[i am flexible if these dates don't work for you.]
keep in mind i am already booked
[with a some dates still open]
into august right now.
i have had a busy june so far!

please call or email should you have any questions or concerns!
[you can find my info at the top of my blog.]

& lastly,
if you bring a bag of food to donate to the food bank,
i will give you 10 extra holiday cards for free!
to say thanks for your generosity!

also if you refer a friend[s]
you will receive a free 8 x 10 from your session
[upon the friend's session being booked | paid]

refer multiple friends & receive more prints or a free custom card design digital file

[you can use this to print anywhere - an unlimited amount of times.]

so...don't be a procrastinating patty.
take care of your holiday business before the crowds.

love | hugs & laughter.

air

what a great & busy weekend!

2010-06-07T15:11:00.002-06:00

sooo. happy monday.
i hope everyone had a great weekend.
i know i did.

i enjoyed several photo shoots.
here is a sneakity peek of one...

it was fun. & the family is beautiful.

i enjoyed girl time with shopping, good food & a little wine.
what girl couldn't enjoy any of those?!

i even stayed up til 5 am on saturday....
talk about crazy.
funny thing is, i got up & was ready to go and felt great pretty much all day.
i thought i would crash but nope....

life is certainly sweet.
i have some fabulous people in mine.

here's to a happy, happy week!
happy monday & more pictures to come later tonight.

love | hugs & laughter.

little miss brielle.

2010-06-04T21:38:00.000-06:00

this is a different sort of post.

i have already shouted it all over facebook.

i just want to say happy birthday to little miss brielle.

[otherwise known as "bre" or "bee" in our house.]

brielle is 4 today. & oh so big!
i still remember her mom going into labor in the middle of the night.
& taking pictures of her tiny feet when i met her the next day.
she is still oh so sweet.
& she is my savannah's best friend.
[also known as biznanna to "bre"]

i find it very fitting they are so close & love each others company.
because her mama & i are also that way.
she is one of my very best friends.
& those kinds of friends are hard to come by.

so happy birthday bre-bre! we all love you.
[& your sweet little brother ricky too!]
& i love your new cowgirl get up.
SOOO COOL!!!!

Shylie | Carbon 11' Senior

2010-06-03T19:13:00.001-06:00

for being so busy i certainly got to have a fun afternoon.

it's always nice when you get to spend time photographing people.

[well, for me, it is!]

meet shylie.

shylie is a senior rep for me for carbon high school.

shylie is a senior graduating next year in the spring of 2011. [goooo! dinos.]

we met up today to do a mini shoot before her actual pictures in the fall.

shylie is a beautiful girl who thinks she stinks at pictures.

i happen to disagree [strongly!] what about you?

so here is a sneakity peek at what I spent my afternoon doing.

i hope you enjoy. it was SO much fun & I cant wait for the pictures in the fall.

seniors rock! they are so much fun.

& they also remind me that life is too short to go around frowning.

so enjoy your youth [or semi-youth, whatever.]

& turn that frown upside down!

XOXO

love | laughter | & hugs.

busy | my new middle name.

2010-06-03T12:35:00.001-06:00

so have you ever been so busy that you feel like your mind is bursting at the seams?

no? [yes!] anyone that says no is either lying or super lazy. :)

well that is me this week. I have several invitation/stationary orders to finish up.
4 days worth of photo shoots starting today. [then more next week.]
i still have senior shoots to share from a month ago or more.

i have a bazillion doggie barkscotti treats to bake for the
No More Homeless Pets of Utah - Casino Royale Fundraiser Night.
[if you haven't gotten tickets already, think about it & buy them here.]

i think its sure to be a fabulous night for all humans & canines!

i guess it's time to get back to work. these things don't just finish themselves.

i will be posting photos later of a dear friends wedding invites i designed.
[i have just been waiting patiently or not so patiently
for the postal service to deliver her box so she can see them too.]

also if you havent already check out my etsy shop.
it's still being built up with product but i hope to do much, much more with it later.
i have been handling all my orders for the past year via email & facebook.
that is getting too complicated | strung out | unprofessional...
so its time to take this etsy business to another level & get serious with it.

i also encourage you to tell your family & friends about me.
when i hit 500 "likers" [i hate saying fans, really. i do.] on facebook,
i will be offering a sweet giveaway.
i hate to give away too much but it could involve photos.
[or so a little birdie told me.]

for now i leave you with a little treat.
my two oldest girls [ella & savannah]
had a sister sleepover the other night.

they were so cute, i just couldn't resist a photo [or 10]
of course there were blankets & giant bears everywhere
& treats left on their face..but they had so much fun!

happy thursday [it's almost the weekend.]

2010-05-28T18:22:00.001-06:00

brace yourself for a longer post. [i promise you won't be mad.]

meet my friend lynsey. [& her family.]

she has an amazing husband and 2 very cute boys & 1 little sweet girl.

lynsey is such an amazing & strong person.

in the past months i have learned so much from her.

here are some photos from about a month back that I took of her family.

see, aren't they beautiful? check out her sassy, fun little hairdo' too!

so let me tell you about what my friend is going through.
i promise it will humble you.
lynsey had a baby back in march, shortly after she realized she was still not feeling well.
long story made short. [so rare for me, go ahead laugh it up.]
she found out she has hodgkin's lymphoma.
lynsey has been incredibly brave & strong, battling cancer & juggling all the demands of family life.
some days having to be completely without her babies because of her treatments & such.

as a mom, i just cant imagine anything more trying.
but for those of us not living that life we know nothing about what she is truly going through.
the annoyance it must cause to leave her babies behind or to travel back and forth to salt lake for her treatments & the way she feels after those treatments.
or the fact that she had to say goodbye to her long hair & really is in a wig in the photos above.

but she does know it.
she is living her life with grace. & honesty & bravery & integrity
[i could go on and on.]
she is someone i admire because of it.
so the reason i had to post this is to share her story.
to tell you that even your worst day can not match up to a mediocre day for her.
that if she can get through such a rough time, we all can.

also, i want people who to know there are ways we can help lynsey.
even if you don't live in the great state of utah.
lynsey & her family can really use some help with medical expenses, traveling expenses, etc.
so if you feel the need to donate in some way please let me know.
or she loves getting sweet care packages. if you are the kind that likes to do that sort of thing. :)

& lastly there are some fundraisers going on locally.
so PLEASE get out there and support them if you can.
every little bit helps. even if it just means you telling all your friends & family, your hairdresser, you know...

there will be a carwash held in her honor next weekend -

saturday june 5th.

market express - chevron

10 am - start time.

also I am posting a flyer on here for a fun tae-bo workout weekend, silent auction, bake sale, etc.
it's really going to be great. if you can help in anyway at all [donations are welcome.], please let me know.

& lastly.

i am donating $10 from each photo session booked with me for the months of june & july as well.

please contact me if you want to book, its for a great cause.

[& you can take the photos in any month but would need to at least book in june or july.]

i am willing to travel to SLC or around that area as well.

some of you have been so nice already to donate & do so many nice things.

it's very much appreciated & means the world to lynsey & her family.

so I guess thats about it.

if you are on facebook please find the support group for her.

please contact me if you have any questions/concerns/ideas/etc.

[airgreenwood@gmail.com]

thanks for taking the time to read all this & learn about an incredible woman.

we should all be so lucky to know someone so wonderful.

love to you lyns. i am thinking of you often. ♥

cupcakes + kisses [claire & bella.]

2010-05-28T11:45:00.001-06:00

there are so many things uncertain in life.
for me, there is one thing so VERY true.
children. they ALWAYS tell the truth.
their laughter is contagious & intoxicating.
their energy is endless & not so contagious to us "ahem, old folks" ha!
their stories are hilarious & real. so true to life. the details we miss as adults are shameful.

so last week, I had the pleasure of spending some time with two very cute little girls.
[& their mama, whom i may add I never see enough.] hint, hint!
you can't help but miss childhood just a teensy bit when you see pictures like this.

they were both so full of personality and life.
the fact that i know the family made this day so much more fun & special as well.
[i still remember the days with just your kitty, shadow.]
miss claire had all this energy & was just so happy to smile for the camera.

and miss bella was just the same. it was a fun challenge to get her to smile for the camera.

& she loved the chalk. she ♥'d it so much she decided to have a snack. [mmm, chalky.]

i love, ♥, love kids at this age.
they learn to say the funniest things & its so sweet to hear their little voices. [until they say no!]
don't you just want to kidnap her?! [ok, maybe not kidnap but borrow, perhaps?]

once again I am reminded how much I love capturing life's smiles & moments.

thanks so much for letting me put your little cuties on display.

they certainly are adorable & fun. you guys are just so blessed.

much love. ♥

meg | gianni [atticus & scout]

2010-05-24T01:26:00.002-06:00

well. where to start?

once you see these pictures...you will be smitten.

the time spent with these [four] & Taryn :) was effortless.

the love they share is obvious/contagious/inspiring/deep..

i really could go on and on. but i won't.

you can see for yourselves in the photos below.

these two lovebirds ♥ are set to tie the knot this October.

after that this little foursome is sure to continue to live a life of bliss.

[as seen in this collage of their cute family now.]

meg is a wonderful mama to her babies.

you can see the love they have for one another because of her.

love like that is surely hard to find.

scout & atticus are two very cute [& lucky] kids.

meg & gianni [atticus & scout]-

I wish you sweet happiness in your life together.

[although I know you already have plenty.] :)

i can't wait for october. i am sure you can't either.

when i was editing your photos, it reminded me of being in new love.

[your love isn't completely new]

but that anxious, cant wait to be the mrs to your mr,

kiss me all the time, love. ♥

i can't wait to see where this life takes you two.

i wish you nothing but happy trails & sunshine.

[we all know life isn't perfect]

but if you can endure this journey with your partner, life is certainly sweetly blessed.

thanks for sharing your love with me you [four]

xoxo

♥ your guts.

jaymee | patrick [&gianna]

2010-05-19T15:56:00.001-06:00

Last weekend I had the priviledge of traveling to Salt Lake City to photograph a beautiful family [well, several]

Jaymee & Patrick were so fun to be around
[minus the hike back up Memory Grove but it was still enjoyable & hey, we all need the exercise.]
Gianna [jaymee's bonus daughter] was a joy to be around despite the cold & clouds.
[mr. weatherman was way off on that day's forecast.]
By the end of the session I was bribing her with cupcakes...
[but none of that matters when you get the right shot.]

like this one. [right at the end, when the sun decided to cooperate.] thanks mr. sunshine.

& here are just a few others from the shoot as well.

I will be adding a gallery of some sort too, until then,

please feel free to find me on facebook - call me - or just check the blog often.

The best moments captured are often unplanned & I truly enjoy every second of what I do

Thanks Patrick | Jaymee [& Gianna] for such a fun day and the chance to give you some memories!